EUDIS Hackathon Portugal 2026
The EUDIS Defence Hackathon will be held in eight simultaneous hackathons in different national locations across EU Member States and Norway, addressing pressing challenges for the European defense and security sector. By working on real-world defense issues, participants contribute to strengthening Europe's innovation ecosystem and fostering cooperation with partners, including Ukraine.
In addition to local prizes, the eight national winners of the hackathon will have access to 40 hours of mentoring.
THREE CHALLENGES: Which one will you solve?💡
Topic: Airspace Defense
The EUDIS Spring 2026 Hackathon focuses on strengthening the protection of European airspace and counter-drone capabilities, in line with urgent defense and security priorities. Learn more at eudis-hackathon.eu/challenges/
1️⃣ Best Value Drone Interceptors
To develop more affordable and efficient interception technologies to combat hostile drones, addressing the scarcity and high operating costs of existing systems.
2️⃣ Next-Generation Drone Detection Systems
Accessible and scalable early warning and detection solutions are needed for fast, low-altitude drone threats, while maintaining effectiveness in adverse weather conditions and complex terrain. Improving decision speed and tracking reliability is crucial during large-scale, multidirectional attacks, while simultaneously minimizing false alarms and reducing the impact of decoy waves designed to overwhelm defenses.
3️⃣ Maritime Defense
Aerial threats are not limited to land. How can we protect ports, critical maritime infrastructure, and naval operations against aerial and hybrid threats? We welcome solutions that integrate situational awareness of the sea, the seabed, and the surface, autonomous platforms, sensor fusion, and rapid response systems.
HACKERS: Who can participate?
This is an in-person hackathon. All selected participants must travel to the specified location and participate in person during Hackathon Weekend (March 26-28, 2026).
To be eligible, you must:
Be 18 years of age or older
Being a citizen of an EU Member State, Norway or Ukraine
Participate in person throughout the entire hackathon period
To be part of a team (minimum of 2 members) before the start of the competition
⚠️ Eligibility verification: Identification documents will be verified at the hackathon venue. Failure to present valid proof of citizenship will result in disqualification from the event.
⚲ Unicorn Stage
Unicorn Factory Lisboa - Beato Innovation District
Avenida Infante Dom Henrique nr.141 - 145, 1950-406 Lisboa